Chief Roimata's Domain - World Heritage Site

In cultures where language is unwritten, oral traditions are faithfully passed down from generation to generation. The accuracy of such history is often questioned by Western standards, since what is heard can change in the retelling. And in any case, how does one separate fact from legend? Throughout the middle and southern islands of Vanuatu, there existed the story of a great and powerful man.

Roughly 400 years ago, Chief Roi Mata united the warring tribes of central Vanuatu, brokered lasting peace, and ended cannibalism in the region. Today's tour retraces his life across three sites where he ruled, where he died, and where he was laid to rest.

Site 1 – Mangaas: The Seat of Power

Near present day Mangaliliu village, Mangaas was Roi Mata's residence and the political heart of his domain. Around 1600 AD, he united the region's warring tribes here, brokered lasting peace, and ended cannibalism a legacy still spoken of with respect today. Beneath these ancient banyan trees, he governed the surrounding islands and received visiting chiefs.

Site 2 – Lelepa Island, Feles Cave: The Ancient Habitat

A short boat crossing brings you to Feles Cave, a cavern rising some 22 metres above the shoreline with an entrance opening into a chamber 35 metres deep. Weakened by poison from his own brother's betrayal, Roi Mata was carried here to die. The cave holds rock art around 500 years old, believed by some to be an early calendar, and later served as a mourning site for his grieving people. Look out from the cave mouth, it offers a direct sightline across the water to Eretoka Island, where the story continues.

Site 3 – Eretoka (Hat) Island: The Resting Place

Uninhabited then and now, Eretoka nicknamed "Hat Island" for its silhouette, is where Roi Mata was buried alongside dozens of his court, with estimates ranging from 25 to 50 companions. Declared taboo for nearly four centuries, the grave was excavated in 1967 by French archaeologist José Garanger, whose findings confirmed the oral tradition almost exactly.